Devon County Council's first surveyor will be honoured next month in a special afternoon of talks and displays celebrating Devon s transport history.

Devon County Council's first surveyor will be honoured next month in a special afternoon of talks and displays celebrating Devon's transport history.

James Green was appointed in 1808. He was originally an assistant to John Rennie, one of the greatest engineers of his age, designer of the Plymouth breakwater and the old Waterloo and London bridges.

James Green was responsible for Devon's roads and bridges. In the 33 years he worked with the council, he designed and built over 100 bridges. He also worked on canals and churches.

Many of his bridges are still in use today, including the bridge over the Exeter Canal at Countess Wear.

Executive Member for Culture, Councillor Sheila Hobden, said: "James Green left a wonderful legacy which we can still see all around us today. This day is a must for local history buffs and engineering enthusiasts alike."

The bicentenary celebrations will be held on Friday, October 3, between 2pm and 4pm, at the Devon Record Office, Sowton Industrial Estate, Exeter.

The event is free and refreshments are provided but booking is essential. Please telephone 01392 384253 or email katherine.weston@devon.gov.uk